The VISES of Garage Journal

[454ragtop]

Thanks, Grouse.
I'd seen Outlaw's post already-you're right, he's got quite a collection. I have one like the one pictured, but without the chipped anvil. So there! I have all 5 sizes I know of: 1", 1 1/2". 1 3/4", 2" and 2 1/2", but have only restored one, a 1 1/2" in Regal Red. I'll post a Family Portrait at some time, maybe when they're all done. Trying to decide whether to paint them all the same color, or all different.

The details of the stud-mount version are still a mystery, but I'm confident with as many GJ eyes prying dusty recesses for vises, someone's sure to come across one with the missing parts, and of course a swivel-jaw version. Maybe even me!

Nice collection Bob, but do you have a hand vise? http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=3554942#post3554942
Jim

 

[GETRIDAONE]

Hey Get, not EVERY vise, just the interesting one, and for 25 bucks that one is interesting. I don't have it in my hands yet but I will soon. Yes mine is welded to the base and in much better shape than yours. Do you know who made it?

I got two more calls from my sources for Parker 954s, that makes 8 this week. All between 40-100. Didnt buy a single one. Are you proud of me.

Just tore down and rebuilt my Parker 439. OUTLAW will be proud because i left the patina intact. I will post pics soon.

The picture was from a CL ad I saw this morning in Tennesee, it's not mine.

I think the 954 & 974 were big sellers for Parker.

My Parker double swivler is still in the pile to get some attention. It was repainted at some point, but the green color is very close when comparing it to other Parkers of the same period.

 

[joe.striper]

Today I spent 8 hours in my unheated shop working on the Parker 439. Outlaw you'll be happy to know i kept its naked patina and using a soft wire brush cleaned off all the dirt.

Disassembled it and wire brushed everything internally. I also had to build new swivel clamp handles from scratch. First time I've ever done this and I'm happy with it. Feel free to critique my work.

I sanded the jaws smooth, that's when i discovered the dynamic jaw insert is brazed on. Guy did a pretty nice job too. I'm not upset at all about this repair as you really have to look to see it.

Zoomie pm me with your email address and I'll send you pics and specs for Dayid. There is no info listed for this one.

Of all the vises I own this is my absolute favorite...

 

[joe.striper]

Picked up this Wilton C1 late yesterday. Seller wanted 100 but I paid 125. I couldn't pay 100 in good conscience.

I will pull the jaw soon and check for a date

 

[bagged89s10]

Today I spent 8 hours in my unheated shop working on the Parker 439. Outlaw you'll be happy to know i kept its naked patina and using a soft wire brush cleaned off all the dirt.



Disassembled it and wire brushed everything internally. I also had to build new swivel clamp handles from scratch. First time I've ever done this and I'm happy with it. Feel free to critique my work.



I sanded the jaws smooth, that's when i discovered the dynamic jaw insert is brazed on. Guy did a pretty nice job too. I'm not upset at all about this repair as you really have to look to see it.



Zoomie pm me with your email address and I'll send you pics and specs for Dayid. There is no info listed for this one.



Of all the vises I own this is my absolute favorite...

Nice work Joe. How exactly did you build the swivel clamp handles? They look nice. I want to make eventually make new ones for my wilton as they are chewed up.

 

[joe.striper]

Nice work Joe. How exactly did you build the swivel clamp handles? They look nice. I want to make eventually make new ones for my wilton as they are chewed up.

I bought 7/16" stock and threaded both ends. Loctited it and tightened down the nuts. Then just grinding, sanding, more grinding and then hitting it with the deburring wheel. It was really easy.

 

[bagged89s10]

I bought 7/16" stock and threaded both ends. Loctited it and tightened down the nuts. Then just grinding, sanding, more grinding and then hitting it with the deburring wheel. It was really easy.

What did you use for the nuts?

 

[Smokeshow69]

I picked up a new addition today (5196). I got it as a potential gift for my FIL. I was hoping it would be the 1956 version. Instead it is 5-48. So if someone wants to make a straight up trade let me know. Enough story, here are the pictures.






And one more on my bench.

Jeremy, you have a pm. I was trying to get this vice of craigslist but you beat me to it. I am hoping you might be interested in trading for a nice columbian but either way drop me a pm and we can work something out! You know you are a tool addict if you miss out on a tool on craigslist and you go to the garage journal to find out who beat you to it

 

[the spyder]

I've been looking for a smaller bench vise to use in my machine tool area, and for some reason I really want a wilton. This is the only decent one I can find locally, but I'm wondering if I should hold out for something larger/cheaper. Or is the price fair and I'm just a cheapskate . http://salem.craigslist.org/tls/4899077886.html

 

[zkling]

I've been looking for a smaller bench vise to use in my machine tool area, and for some reason I really want a wilton. This is the only decent one I can find locally, but I'm wondering if I should hold out for something larger/cheaper. Or is the price fair and I'm just a cheapskate . http://salem.craigslist.org/tls/4899077886.html

To high, especially for the non swivel and that small of a jaw width IMHO. If you just want a bench vise, expand your search to other brands, and wait for a bullet.

 

[rennebew]

Interesting Emmert Presto No 28 swivel jaw vise - not mine

August 30, 1904 Mortimer G. Lewis patent US 768810 A

http://springfieldil.craigslist.org/tls/4931636730.html

Pics in case ad is deleted

View media item 48920
View media item 48921

 

[topop101]

I've been looking for a smaller bench vise to use in my machine tool area, and for some reason I really want a wilton. This is the only decent one I can find locally, but I'm wondering if I should hold out for something larger/cheaper. Or is the price fair and I'm just a cheapskate . http://salem.craigslist.org/tls/4899077886.html

150 is a bit high. 80.00 -100.00 depending on condition in my area. Dang Wilton's just cost more but really aren't any better . For the same money or less you could get a Parker 954 and , to me, a better machine. Just my opinion though...

 

[joe.striper]

What did you use for the nuts?

Just standard 7/16ths X 20 grade 5 nuts.

 

[oakundeisen]

Picked up this Monarch 229 Coachmakers vise today.





Real straight with mostly surface rust. It will clean up nicely.

 

[WilltheEngineer]

In an alternate universe, this is the famous quote from JAWS...

Get it? Jaws... Vise... HAHA!

My favorite, is the scar comparison at the table.....

 

[WilltheEngineer]

It may be interesting to add when posting, What each vise is mainly used for....

 

[topop101]

Today I spent 8 hours in my unheated shop working on the Parker 439. Outlaw you'll be happy to know i kept its naked patina and using a soft wire brush cleaned off all the dirt.

Disassembled it and wire brushed everything internally. I also had to build new swivel clamp handles from scratch. First time I've ever done this and I'm happy with it. Feel free to critique my work.

I sanded the jaws smooth, that's when i discovered the dynamic jaw insert is brazed on. Guy did a pretty nice job too. I'm not upset at all about this repair as you really have to look to see it.

Zoomie pm me with your email address and I'll send you pics and specs for Dayid. There is no info listed for this one.

Of all the vises I own this is my absolute favorite...

Great... now I want one...

 

[90zcar]

Anyone give me a rough idea on a good price for this wilton. Seen it on craigslist this morning. Appears to be nothing wrong w it. Waiting for the guy to get back to me

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[zkling]

About half that for me.

 

[oldldh]

About half that for me.

Nope...

That's a little high, me thinks...

I wouldn't go over a third...

 

[bagged89s10]

Anyone give me a rough idea on a good price for this wilton. Seen it on craigslist this morning. Appears to be nothing wrong w it. Waiting for the guy to get back to me

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What's the asking price?

 

[90zcar]

$225


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[drivesitfar]

90: depending on the availability of old vises in your area that probably isn't too bad of a price. I've sold a few members Wilton bullets in that price range and they are happy and we still email each other about vises and other tools and shop talk. i think an Ebay version might be another $100.

as stated some of the older bigger vises might be bought for that or less that are just as well built and maybe better, but Wilton does have a good name and value.

some on this thread wouldn't pay more than $100-150 for it for a couple reasons. one they don't need a vise or they are going to spend a lot of time restoring it and selling it for more money to somebody that wants an old vise in new condition.

 

[davidless]

Can you experts help me with this Wilton 1745 Tradesman bullet vise?
This is a 1745 made in the USA model. The spec sheet says it's 17" in length, well I measured this one at work, do they spec it open or closed because this one is the perfect size for my roll away top

Thanks

david

 

[drivesitfar]

David: i'm guessing by your tape that if Wilton or the ad said 17.5 inches it would have to be open because that vise opens up about 5 inches. also just so you know that isn't Wilton's higher quality bullet line so the prices i quoted for a 4 or 4.5 inch bullet in the previous post doesn't apply to the 1745 you are looking at. i'd say about $100 less just for a ballpark figure and personally i don't like that model even if it's one they made in the US. they make those same versions now in China and i think sell new ones for maybe $150, but you'll have to do your own research on that because that is just a guess.

if it works for what you need it for and you have the perfect spot for it just don't use it as a press or an anvil and you'll be happy with it for years to come.

 

[BFBOB]

Nice collection Bob, but do you have a hand vise? http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=3554942#post3554942
Jim

No... somehow the hand vises never much appealed to me. But, I guess if I ran across one at a garage sale for peanuts I wouldn't be able to resist. It would indeed be an addition to the family.

 

[macgee]

$225


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You need to be careful asking that question on this thread. Just like what Drivesitfar said, if you ask that question here you'll most likely get replies like $25-$40 but in reality it's a good vise and they hold up well. Having said that, the price should reflect that it is not restored and the paint is pretty much gone; practically raw and probably needs attention. Painting the vise (Properly) takes a little time and effort but it's not hard with some patience but should reflect in the price.

You would need to check for back-lash in the handle and if the jaws are in good condition and line up perfectly or not, check for welds or cracks, check to see if the screws to remove both jaws are not stripped or welded in (common) and for any other damage.

If everything is good and the vise is solid then I say $125 is a fair price, I certainly have paid way less; I bought the exact same vise for $25 (got lucky & took time) but people have paid way more like $250, some people pay less. Price also depends how badly you need one and how many vises like this are available in your area.

Buying a used vise online can get expensive solely because the cost of shipping so keep that in mind and add that cost when searching for prices on eBay.

If you check everything mentioned above, then that vise should last you a life time, unlike a lot of other vises.

 

[topop101]

Just finished a couple today. # 3 Wilton and an Athol Machine Co. 681

 

[90zcar]

Just finished a couple today. # 3 Wilton and an Athol Machine Co. 681

Very nice!! Is that wilton a swivel base or do u bolt it down solid?


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[KMScott]

Just finished a couple today. # 3 Wilton and an Athol Machine Co. 681

Nice job topop, I like the paint on the Athol, what kind of paint did you use. Thanks in advance. I am sure others are interested too.

 

[drivesitfar]

TP: SC's comment made me look closer and i agree that paint or rubber coated application on your Athol is over the top awesome. nice work on it and your Wilton. just curious if your buying slows down any when you are spending time restoring them? or do you still have shipments and pickups on the daily schedule.

very nice

ALL: Bluebolt (BB) just posted up about 130 Wilton bullet stamped and non stamped slides on the Wilton stamp dating thread. we've been trying to determine when the 5 year warranty started and when it ended to get a better idea of when the vises actually left the factory. here's the link in case any of you want to check it out or add your Wilton vise's picture and date stamped if before 1970. interesting stuff to be sure and thanks to Bluebolt again for going through the entire vise thread to put up the new information.

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=269079

 

[topop101]

Woah nice Athol (Wilton too!) Did you use plasticote bedliner on it by any chance?

No.. it's a textured multicolored paint.

 

[topop101]

Very nice!! Is that wilton a swivel base or do u bolt it down solid?


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It's a fixed base.

 

[topop101]

Nice job topop, I like the paint on the Athol, what kind of paint did you use. Thanks in advance. I am sure others are interested too.

I used a multicolored textured paint. I tried to match the original finish as close as possible

 

[Mohawk Dave]

Picked up an Athol 618 8" and another Trenton anvil, ~180/200#, last night. (I have a 250# Trenton as well)

Anyone have a catalog page for this old Athol?

Pretty wild when a vise makes a 200# anvil look small. lol

 

[topop101]

TP: SC's comment made me look closer and i agree that paint or rubber coated application on your Athol is over the top awesome. nice work on it and your Wilton. just curious if your buying slows down any when you are spending time restoring them? or do you still have shipments and pickups on the daily schedule.

My buying has slowed down only because there is nothing in my area worth having or it's over priced. Shipping is a royal pain especially of vises. I put the Wilton up on fb and had it sole in under an hour today . That's the best kind of deal. Cash and they come and get it. My restoring time is mostly dictated by my real job. With the improving weather the work day will be getting longer and turning me into "all wErk and no play"

 

[topop101]

Picked up an Athol 618 8" and another Trenton anvil, ~180/200#, last night.

Anyone have a catalog page for this old Athol?

Pretty wild when a vise makes a 200# anvil look small. lol

Dang ! that is soooo sweet. What did you have to give for the 618? I bought a 617 last weekend but it wasn't as nice as your 8 and had to give 2 for it and chip it out of a concrete barrel. Curious, What does it weight? My 7 goes 208.

 

[drivesitfar]

MD: one of those behemouths would be a score and a back ache, but both the same day is one of the best deals of the year and a hernia.

more specs when you get time, but happy to hear you still had energy to post pictures and get them home.

TP: maybe as you get busier at work somebody else in the 3 or 5 states you seem to find vises will have a chance to buy a farm fresh one. if you like that black paint's finish half as much as i do you might want to paint a few more vises with that color and technique/style.

 

[Mohawk Dave]

Dang ! that is soooo sweet. What did you have to give for the 618? I bought a 617 last weekend but it wasn't as nice as your 8 and had to give 2 for it and chip it out of a concrete barrel. Curious, What does it weight? My 7 goes 208.

No kidding about that concrete! I feel bad for that Kobalt gun....need a IR132 or CP rivet gun.

I did horse trading for the vise and anvil. Don't really know what price to put on it.

IDK the weight yet. Still bolted to the stand. I have a thing in my mind that says 260#, but I have no idea where that came from.

What size is the 681?

I wish the pictures did these monsters justice. They are so much larger in person.

 

[McBrownie]

Picked up an Athol 618 8" and another Trenton anvil, ~180/200#, last night.

Anyone have a catalog page for this old Athol?

Pretty wild when a vise makes a 200# anvil look small. lol

Sometimes I wonder why no one made a 10" vise. Then I see a picture of an 8" and understand why. Nice, huge, vise and a great stand too. Someone put some time into making that.